Jenifer Crazythunder

A majority of my professional career has been working in the non -profit field, particularly in the Elgin community. I love this community, and how it comes together to help meet the needs of its community residents. FSA’s mission is a vision that I believe in, and feels that it aligns with my own values and reasons I pursued social work. I knew I wanted to stay in this wonderful community, and wanted to continue to work with children, and families. I also secretly LOVE case management, and when I saw there was a position that I could continue this passion, and share my excitement for case management with others, I knew it was a perfect fit!

Every day is a new adventure, and I am constantly surprised! I work with some truly amazing, and dedicated staff members who are self-starters, and constantly asking questions! The department I am in, is new, and staff members played a crucial role in starting the process. Right now, we are seeing those early stages lead into the big picture, and the roll that the department plays. I provide daily supervision, and guidance for my team. I help with program development, and even in my new role I am always learning something new.

To see the smile on a client’s face when they have overcome challenges, that others have told them they couldn’t

Seeing the problem-solving conversations and the process that the team as talked about, actually taking place! The department is new, and rolled out to FSA in July 2019. It has been a slow process; however, the end results have been rewarding!

My mom. She has never told me no, and has always supported my crazy and out there ideas! She always encourages me that it is important to do the things that you want to do.

"Today me will live in the moment, unless it’s unpleasant in which case me will eat a cookie"

- Cookie Monster

Does it count if I have already met them? I briefly met Jane Goodall during her speaking tour in Orlando but I love to sit down and have a chat, and some coffee with her.

... was afraid of fish, but I love going to aquariums, and love whale sharks.

I would want to fly. I love to travel, and it would be easier if I didn’t have to buy plane tickets. I could just go where ever I wanted.

I am a girl from the South, fried chicken and mash potatoes!

Takoyaki, which is a wheat flour-based batter typically filled with octopus. I didn’t like it.

Hiroshima. It was a very impactful, and emotional experience for myself. The Children’s Peace Memorial, which was my favorite memorial, was beautiful and sad in all the same moment. There were thousands of origami swans hanging from the memorial with messages of peace written on them. It was amazing!